THE QUICK ANSWER
Ontario’s new-home warranty has different coverage periods and reporting steps. Your builder provides the warranty; Tarion administers the protection program and helps resolve eligible claims.
- Confirm your home’s coverage and purchase-registration requirements.
- Use the PDI to document the home’s condition.
- Report unresolved items through the appropriate warranty process.
Builder, HCRA and Tarion: who does what?
| Who | Their role |
|---|---|
| Your builder | Provides the new-home warranty and addresses covered defects. |
| HCRA | Licenses and regulates Ontario new-home builders and sellers. |
| Tarion | Administers the warranty program and acts as its financial backstop. |
More detail: HCRA: builder licensing and warranty roles ↗
Register the purchase, not just the move-in
For new freehold purchases from April 1, 2026, Tarion requires registration within 45 days of signing the purchase agreement. Its current guidance also describes a transition period deferring changes to deposit coverage until January 1, 2027. Register promptly and keep the confirmation.
The agreement date and home type matter. Ask Tarion to confirm your situation, especially if you missed the registration window. Do not assume a late registration removes every warranty protection.
More detail: Tarion: purchase registration and transition details ↗
The 1-, 2- and 7-year coverage periods
These periods run from possession, or occupancy for a condominium unit. They overlap; they are not three consecutive warranties that add up to ten years.
| Coverage period | Examples of coverage |
|---|---|
| One year | Defects in workmanship and materials, unauthorized substitutions and Ontario Building Code violations. |
| Two years | Specified water penetration, exterior cladding and electrical, plumbing and heating distribution defects; health-and-safety Building Code violations. |
| Seven years | Major structural defects, as defined by the warranty. |
This is a summary, not an exhaustive list. Coverage limits, exclusions and special rules still apply.
More detail: Tarion: coverage for homes and condo units ↗
Make the pre-delivery inspection useful
At the PDI, record missing, damaged, incomplete or inaccessible items and systems that do not work. Ask the builder to demonstrate heating, ventilation and shut-offs. Keep photographs and copies of the inspection form and warranty certificate.
The PDI is an evidence record, not a warranty claim. Put unresolved items on the appropriate warranty form rather than relying only on the inspection list.
More detail: Tarion: the pre-delivery inspection ↗
Create a simple reporting file
Set up your Tarion MyHome account and use the claim process that applies to your possession date. Record the issue, room, date noticed, photographs and communications. Keep submission receipts and follow the applicable repair and escalation deadlines.
For urgent or emergency issues, consult Tarion’s emergency guidance promptly rather than waiting for a routine form window.
More detail: Tarion: making and resolving warranty claims ↗
Know the limits of the protection
Normal wear, owner-caused damage and some maintenance-related problems are excluded. Coverage is not a substitute for home insurance or regular upkeep. Ask about your particular issue instead of treating every post-move-in problem as a covered defect.
More detail: Tarion: what the warranty does not cover ↗
Deposits and common elements need separate attention
Deposit protection is different from defect coverage after possession. Confirm the applicable limits and requirements for your home type and agreement date; do not assume the entire amount you pay is protected.
For a condo, report shared-building concerns to the condominium’s management or board as well. Common-element claims follow a separate process from your individual unit.
More detail: Tarion: protection before possession ↗
SAVE FOR YOUR SHORTLIST
Your next-step checklist
- Check the builder and vendor in the Ontario Builder Directory.
- Keep your purchase agreement, warranty sheet and registration confirmation together.
- Calendar reporting dates from the rules applicable to your possession date.
- Save photographs, PDI records, repair correspondence and claim receipts.
Quick answers
Does “seven-year warranty” mean everything is covered for seven years?
No. Different defects fall under different periods. The seven-year protection concerns major structural defects; shorter periods cover other categories.
Is the PDI enough to make a warranty claim?
No. Report outstanding issues using the applicable warranty forms and process. Keep the PDI as supporting evidence.
Can MCS confirm whether a defect is covered?
MCS will help you find the relevant project information. Tarion and the warranty process determine coverage; a qualified professional can advise on your specific issue.
General information for planning. Confirm financing, legal and tax details with the appropriate professional for your purchase.